Getting married in Malta is simple, even for expats. The country offers clear rules, English-language support, and full legal recognition of both opposite-sex and same-sex marriages. With the right documents and a little planning, you can organise your ceremony, register your marriage and even apply for a state Marriage Grant.
Who Can Marry in Malta
Anyone over 18 can legally marry in Malta, whether they’re an EU citizen or a non-EU national. Those aged 16 or 17 can also marry with parental consent. The law requires both partners to be legally free to marry: meaning single, divorced, widowed or civil union. Same rules apply equally to oposite-sex and same-sex couples.
Since 2017, Malta has fully recognizes same-sex marriage, giving all couples the same rights and procedures.
Malta by the Numbers: Marriages and Same-Sex Couples
Official statistics show Malta is a busy wedding destination:
- 2,546 marriages registered in Malta in 2024.
- 100 same-sex couples married in Malta in 2022, up from 51 in 2021 and 39 in 2020.
- By late 2023, 435 same-sex couples had married in Malta since the law changed in 2017.
- 74% of Maltese residents support same-sex marriage.
These figures confirm Malta’s reputation as a progressive, attractive wedding destination – especially for same-sex couples looking for full legal recognition.
Types of Ceremonies
Couples can choose between a civil or a religious when getting married in Malta, depending on their preferences. Civil weddings are conducted by a Marriage Registry officer either at the Registry office in Malta or Gozo itself or at an approved venue, while religious weddings are held by recognized religious bodies that follow Maltese marriage law.
Documents You’ll Need
| Document | Noter |
| Original Birth Certificate | Apostilled or legalised if issued abroad. |
| Valid Passport or EU ID Card | For both partners. |
| Certificate of No Impediment / Free Status Certificate | Confirms you are free to marry. If your country doesn’t issue it, you may provide an affidavit. |
| Divorce Decree / Annulment / Death Certificate | If previously married. |
| Witness Information | Two witnesses with valid ID must attend. |
| Translations | Any document not in English or Maltese must be officially translated. |
When to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
- Get married on your chosen date.
- Gather your documents – birth certificates, passports, Free Status Certificates, translations.
- Complete RZ1 and RZ2 forms – sign RZ2 before a notary or Commissioner for Oaths.
- Submit everything to the Marriage Registry at least 3 months before your planned wedding date.
- Publication of Banns – the Registry issues your official notice.
- Confirm your venue and witnesses – ensure details match your documents.
- Pick up the Act of Marriage before the ceremony if requested (especially for religious weddings).
The Marriage Grant – Financial Support After You Marry
Malta offers a Marriage Grant to eligible couples. It’s a one-off state payment after marriage or civil union: the Social Security Department may trigger it automatically for marriages registered in Malta, but if married abroad you must apply manually.
As of Budget 2025, the Marriage Grant is €500 per spouse (€1,000 per couple). It applies to both marriages and civil unions. The application must be submitted within six months after the date of marriage/civil union.
Who Qualifies?
| Criterion | Applies to EU Nationals | Applies to Non-EU Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinarily resident in Malta at the time of marriage | ✅ | ✅ (if legally residing) |
| Worked / self-employed / self-occupied for at least 6 months before marriage | ✅ | ✅ (if their permit allows work and they pay social security) |
| Paid Social Security contributions (26 contributions since last marriage for remarried persons) | ✅ | ✅ (if contributing) |
| Marriage registered in Malta or registered abroad but notified to Maltese authorities | ✅ | ✅ |
In short, both EU and non-EU nationals may qualify if they are legally resident, working or self-employed in Malta, and have contributed to social security as required.
Fees
Fees in Malta are relatively modest. A civil marriage held at the Marriage Registry costs about €25.65 when both partners live in Malta. If one partner resides abroad, the fee rises to €51.30, and if both reside abroad it’s €76.95. Civil ceremonies held outside the Registry Office cost more – up to €102.60 depending on residence status. Religious marriages follow a similar fee structure, starting from €25.65. These fees cover the processing and registration of your marriage with the Maltese authorities.
Why Malta Is Attractive Destination For a Wedding?
- Full legal recognition of same-sex marriage since 2017.
- High public acceptance and strong anti-discrimination laws.
- Scenic venues ranging from baroque palaces to beaches.
- English as an official language simplifies paperwork and communication.
- Financial support via the Marriage Grant for qualifying couples.
Malta consistently ranks as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in Europe, making it one of the most attractive destinations for same-sex couples planning to marry abroad.
In Short
With thousands of marriages each year, including steadily increasing numbers of same-sex weddings – and even a Marriage Grant available to eligible couples, Malta offers expats a simple, welcoming and legally secure way to tie the knot. By gathering the right documents and respecting the timelines, you can enjoy a seamless wedding process on one of Europe’s most beautiful islands, and possibly benefit from financial support too.
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